How to extend the life of your septic system

September 25, 2017 | Mr. Hill | Septic

A septic system should be cared for properly to avoid the cost of replacing it. When properly maintained, it can last for a very long time.

This informative guide will discuss some of the most important tips to ensure a septic system’s life is extended into the unforeseeable future.
 

Things that should be done to maintain a septic system

1. Regular Inspection and maintenance
Routine inspection and maintenance tends to lengthen the life of a septic tank. One should contact an On-site System maintainer( who’s certified) to inspect and monitor the tank on a regular basis. The frequency in which maintenance should be done normally depends on the type of system.

2. Septic Pumping
The pumping of septic tanks usually depends on the amount of water used in the household. It is advisable that your tank be pumped every 1-5 years. Because of the harsh winters, septic tank service in Syracuse, NY should be done even more often.

A general rule of thumb: The more people using the system = increased water = tank fills up faster. (The tank requires frequent pumping).
 
3. Being water-wise
Using less water increases the life of the septic system. (Too much water is a frequent factor to systems that have failed).
 
This can be done by:
  • Repairing leaky faucets.
  • Not draining water from hot tubs.
  • Using ‘ low slow’ fixtures on faucets.

4. Installing a filter
A filter will on the outlet of the system will prevent clogging materials from entering the drain field.

Things that should not be done

1. Not to use the garbage disposal
It adds grease and solids that build up quickly, clogging the drain field. If they must be used, they should be used in a limited way as much as possible.

2. Not to flush other items except toilet paper.
Cigarette butts,sanitary napkins,oils, diapers etc. should not be flushed into the septic tank. This is because they can clog the drain field and cause problems during drainage.

3. Not to use septic tank additives
They can be harmful because they tend to add extra solids on the system. The chemicals can also pollute the surface water.It’s advisable to use the ones that have WRITTEN approval if they must be used.

4. Keeping heavy things away from the tank
They tend to compromise the effectiveness of the drain field.

These tips should be applied to ensure a septic system stays for a long time with no major issues.

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How to increase the life of your carpets

September 1, 2017 | Mr. Hill | Carpets
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When you are a carpet owner, one question which constantly gyrates in your mind is the lifespan of your beloved carpets. You cannot deny the fact that this textile flooring adds a different and special dimension to any room in your home. It can be used as a decorative item to transform the floor according to your unique tastes. Research has been done on the types of carpets and various factors affecting their lifespan. All the research has been narrowed down to four major factors for how you can extend the life of your carpets.

The first factor anyone can think of is the type of material used in making the carpets. Most of the carpets contain these fibers: nylon, wool, cotton, and olefin. Each material has its own characteristics. Nylon carpets are preferred over others as it has more stain resistant and durable compared to most others. Olefin carpets are widely used due to its cheap availability. When it comes to lifespan, nylon stands out way ahead of olefin or polyester.

Second major factor which helps to extend the life of your carpets is proper cleaning. The secret mantra is to blot the stains. DO NOT RUB THEM. Rubbing creates pressure and the stain is evenly spread which gives it a yellow shade. Rubbing can result in breakdown of the fibers used in carpets. Another point to mark is to clean the stain as soon as possible to avoid absorbance. The stain slowly gets absorbed into the fabric which makes it difficult to be cleansed.

Third factor is to give extra importance to the high traffic areas. Some parts of the room have more use compared to various corners. It can be hallways, or the areas around the furniture or the sofa sets where we constantly put our feet. These areas should be given special protection against wear and tear. Special rugs are available which should be kept at proper places to protect the carpet.

Fourth factor is to take the proper precautions. Some of them are listed below:

  • Do not wear shoes inside the room. Shoes gather dirt rather quickly and this can ruin the carpet and reduce its life- expectancy.
  • Rotate furniture once in a while. Some areas are left unattended due to the furniture which covers the place. So, it is advisable to move the furniture once in a while so that all the areas are covered in cleaning. This also reduces continuous pressure at a particular spot.
  • The entryway matting with nylon face and vinyl back is suggested.

These factors when properly employed can increase the lifespan of your carpets up to 20-30% of the normal life-expectancy. However, it should be kept in mind that every human made carpet has an expiration date, and it is always wise to upgrade or renew the object.

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